Samsung to ditch its own office software in favor of Microsoft Word

Samsung will stop using its own JungUm Global software for document and word processing in favor of Microsoft Word starting on January 1, according to an announcement from the company today. This development is not only a big win for Microsoft and its Office division, but it could signal a better working relationship between the two companies in the future.

The transition will begin with Samsung Electronics but Microsoft Word will eventually be used by all of the company's divisions. Samsung said, "Since MS Word supports almost all operating systems, such as Windows, Android and Linux, our staff can also work in a smart manner through PC, smartphones, and tablets." Specific terms of the deal were not disclosed but this certainly would seem to be a major licensing deal for Microsoft over competitors like Google Docs.

The announcement was made following a visit by Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella to South Korea last week, where he had a meeting with Samsung Vice Chairman Lee Jae-Yong. The relationship between the two companies has been frosty lately, especially since Microsoft filed a lawsuit against Samsung in August for allegedly violating its Android patent agreement. Perhaps this new deal is a sign of better things to come.

Do you think this deal could be a precursor to more joint announcements between Microsoft and Samsung?